Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji hold your attention till the very end in this gripping murder mystery

Actor-filmmaker Aamir Khan is being seen on the big screen in a commercial movie after a long time. But his much awaited Talaash, releasing today, is too intelligent to be called ‘commercial’ or ‘massy’ in the conventional sense. Directed by Reema Kagti and written by Zoya Akhtar and Kagti, with additional dialogues by Anurag Kashyap, the film aims to intrigue and surprise you. Does it succeed? To a great extent, yes.

The story begins with the wonderful song Muskaane jhoothi hai, visually complemented by beautiful shots by KU Mohanan depicting the city and its underbelly in ways that you may notice but often choose to ignore. The movie dives straight into an accident scene – filmstar Armaan Kapoor (Vivan Bhatena) is dead. Inspector Surjan Singh Shekhawat aka Suri (Aamir Khan) is assigned the case. As the investigation progresses, it soon becomes clear that there’s more to the accident than is obvious.

The first half is a bit slow. It simply establishes the mystery and the characters in a straightforward, realistic way. The lead stars Aamir, Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji have no dramatic entries or even scenes that showcase their acting prowess. So at interval time you really don’t know what’s coming next. The mystery begins to unfold…

Post interval, Talaash grabs all attention and does not let go till the mystery is solved. Suri chances upon the seductive Rosy (Kareena), who becomes his informer as well as his close confidante, helping him to solve the case. Truly gripping, although some portions might be unsatisfactory for some.

Aamir’s honest cop roles in Baazi and Sarfarosh were more action-oriented, even though they had a backstory. In Talaash, he is subtle. There are no standout mannerisms or dialogues that the character indulges in – like Chulbul Pandey or Bajirao Singham did. Suri is an honest, boring police officer, high on integrity, low on emotional intelligence. He can’t get over the death of his son Karan in an accident, and it makes him insomniac. But he thinks it’s his wife Roshni (Rani) who needs psychiatric help and not himself. Both are trying to come to terms with the grim reality of loss in their own way, and this leads to a growing distance between them, as they are unable to express their deep feelings to each other.

Rani is sans makeup, but even with very little screen time she impresses with her acting. But it’s Kareena that the film belongs to, even though sometimes she looks and acts overly sophisticated for the kind of life her character is leading. At the same time, she is a high-society sex-worker, but speaks like her Chameli avatar. As far as acting goes though, rather than Heroine, it’s Talaash that will eventually earn Kareena greater respect – she delivers an ace. In this film, Aamir, Kareena and Rani act with their eyes.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers an award-winning performance in this one. The actor has been appreciated in Kahaani and Gangs of Wasseypur and tops that with his act in Talaash. It’s amazing how he plays the vulnerable lame man near the bottom of the filth heap that is Mumbai. Remember, it’s the same actor whose characters oozed power in Sujoy Ghosh and Anurag Kashyap’s films. All the other character actors are decent in Talaash as well.

Kagti definitely has done it with Talaash. Every frame has a meaning and no screen time is wasted in mindless comedy or item songs. It’s the kind of flick to be enjoyed, just like slow-cooked food. Especially notable is the bedroom scene of Suri and Rosy – five stars to Reema and Zoya for that! And Aamir and Kareena, of course, who take us with them on a joyride into another world. After all, isn’t cinema anything but virtual reality? Ram Sampath’s score adds to this feeling in the film.

Talaash is less about the mystery and more about the not-so-obvious factors – like coming to terms with the loss of a loved one, overcoming greed and fantasy, and beating the mind at its games, for instance. The movie needs to be watched at least twice to understand the subtext. It will grow on you.

However, this one might not appeal to viewers addicted to reading crime and supernatural fiction, or watching international TV shows and films of the same genre. But as a first for Indian cinema, Talaash must be watched. It might not be a mass entertainer, but it’s on the road to becoming a cult film in the genre.

So he had to work hard not to be distracted by his co-stars, he says. Aamir Khan speaks about his latest film, Talaash and what makes him do what he does so well

Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti came to narrate the script to me, and I just loved it. After a long time in Hindi cinema, we will see a suspense drama – and such a riveting one, with a deep emotional core. I like that it is an unusual and also intriguing combo.

On working with director Reema Kagti…

Reema is a director who is very au fait with her subject. We hadn’t interacted a lot during Lagaan, but were totally immersed with Talaash. Her confidence in what she requires, her in depth preparation of material and how to imbue it with the actor is wonderful. No compromises were made and I was very comfortable working with her. She knew deep layers of my character, which was quite amazing.

This is the third time you’ve worked with a female director (not to mention producing female directors like Anusha Rizvi) – is there a difference in approach, perhaps, from working with men in the industry?

Yes, as a, actor I have worked with Deepa (Mehta), Kiran (Rao) and now Reema. All are extremely wonderful and capable directors. They know exactly what they are looking for in a shot. I would say that actually their approach is a purely individualistic trait and nothing to do with gender. The process of cinema and storytelling – for too long it’s been the male perspective on life and relationships. I’m happy to support women directors, with their fresh mindsets in the world of cinema. Also, there is more opportunity now for new-age filmmakers and writers, which is not dependent on country, region or gender.

Your role in Talaash…

I play Inspector Shekhawat, who is investigating a case. At the core of my character there is loss and coping with loss. It’s an emotional story. I like to create the characters I play in behaviour – each day I have to believe what is happening to the character is happening to me. You have to watch it to glean the rest.

You have two talented leading ladies in Talaash, Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor…

It’s been a while since Ghulam and Mangal Pandey: The Rising, so it was nice to reunite with Rani on screen. And 3 Idiots also seems a long time ago – that was working with Kareena. Both are very pretty, so I had to work at concentrating on the job, without getting distracted (laughs). I like the energy they bring and how they worked with me as part of the larger team. They are both very nice human beings.

Ram Sampath has delivered again for you, creating evocative music, like in Delhi Belly….

The music of Talaash, is Ram and Reema’s creation. I am in love with the film’s songs. They just grow on you. Ram and I have worked on Delhi Belly and Satyamev Jayate. In Ram we see a star who is born, who creates absolutely outstanding music. Ram is a person who has been around a long time, and worked on tons of commercials, and has experience as a composer. His time had come, to make a big mark in Hindi films and cinema and he has matured as a composer. He also loves to experiment. I really feel that his contribution is immense.

How did you prepare for your role as a cop and keep the ‘look’ for so long?

Reema had done extensive research for the role. I did go to Khar police station in Mumbai a couple of times in the night to see the night vigilance team at work. As I work on one film at a time, keeping the look is never an issue.

Being part producer, also lead actor – was this easy to juggle?

In this case, Farhan (Akhtar) and Ritesh (Sidhwani) were more hands-on as producers, so it was easy for me. I didn’t want to produce ever in my life, as I’ve seen what my father went through. I was happy to act – production was the last thing on my mind – but when you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans. I ironically ended up producing films that no one else would touch. They’ve been successful, but I don’t know why. I do give all the work I choose to do, my all.

Coming together with Excel after the iconic Dil Chahta Hai…

Yes, it’s been almost a decade since we worked together. It’s a wonderful team to work with and they are extremely creative. They work in a collaborative style, so they listen to each other’s opinions and decide what needs to be done.

Like Dhobi Ghat, you chose to work in real locations – what were the challenges, with your super-stardom?

Reema was very clear from beginning that she would shoot at real locations. She wanted to capture Mumbai in its real form. It has been difficult for the entire team, however – the light, the ambience and locations can never be replaced by shooting in an indoor studio. It is totally worth the effort.

The climax was shot at Pinewood Studios in London, underwater…

We earlier thought of shooting this in India. It was extremely smooth shooting there and a nice experience, but also a tad petrifying when swimming underwater. The UK is always enjoyable.

You embraced your spiritual side by taking your Mother to Mecca…

I promised my mother that I would take her to Hajj; it was a promise made almost a year ago. It’s been an extremely special experience and an unforgettable one. I have really cherished spending time with my mum.

Satyamev Jayate, like your film Taare Zameen Par, has helped change policy within the government and has changed so many lives – what compelled you to be the social activist?

Uday Shankar of Star TV had approached me for a game show and that’s when I told him of this idea, saying that if I were to come on TV, then it would be in something like this and asked if it would interest him. He just loved the idea. It was an overwhelming response that we got from the people. It’s about raising awareness. Season 2 is on the way and we are working on it, on the research side. Once Dhoom:3 and Rajkumar Hirani’s Peekay are done, we will begin shooting.

Dhoom:3 brings you back to Yash Raj Films after a long hiatus, and you have always played a very good villain…

I will say that it is a pleasure for me to work with Yash Raj Films once again. The Dhoom theme tune gives a swing to my step and the script, by Victor (Vijay Krishna Acharya) really won me over.

Your ‘brand’ of cinema has changed a lot over the years and you are bringing ‘unusual’ indie films, like Peepli:Live, Dhobi Ghat and Delhi Belly to Indian cinema – how important do you see this being for the perception of Indian films by the world and even within India?

As an actor, I have always enjoyed working on films that push the envelope on the commercial format. Whether it’s Lagaan, Dil Chahta Hai or Taare Zameen Par, that is how I choose my films. Peepli:Live, Dhobi Ghat and Delhi Belly are films I have loved, and hence produced. Ultimately, for me, the script should excite me, whether as an actor or producer. I have also shown that art-house movies, which would collect so little in the past, are now able to make some serious money.

What’s next, for Aamir Khan?

I start work on Raj Kumar Hirani’s Peekay and there is SMJ season 2. And the rest is on the horizon and we’ll talk about it later.

A message for the fans?

Do communicate with me via my social media pages and let me know how you feel about my work.

The Talaash director is inspired by young filmmakers, and wants to promote new talent

Reema Kagti, who is excited about her forthcoming release Talaash starring Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji, is equally gung-ho about the Bramhaputra Valley Short Films contest. It is a one-of-its-kind contest which aims to promote films and filmmakers from the country’s north east region. The jury for this unique film festival comprises Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti and Dibakar Banerjee.

Kagti is really looking forward to this unique opportunity where young filmmakers will get to showcase their ideas, inspirations and stories. “Young filmmakers inspire me in a way even veterans can’t do. Being from Assam, I wanted to do something for the region and promote films in Assam. We have so many issues which I hope will be reflected through these films. Films are a beautiful medium. You can make your voice heard by making films. I feel the north east is kind of cut off from the rest of India socially and politically. Through films I am just making an effort to bridge the gap.” said the 42-year-old writer and filmmaker.

We at BollywoodLife agree with Reema’s opinion that films hold the potential to bring people together. And we are sure you would agree too, what say?

Our reviewer who is currently watching this murder mystery messaged to tell us that this Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor starrer has more to it than meets the eye

Talaash is the story of inspector Surjan Singh Shekhawat played by Aamir Khan who starts investigating a mysterious accident. As the story unfolds, it turns out that it is not an accident but a murder.

Our reviewer, who is currently watching the movie, texted us to say that the mystery of this puzzling murder tale begins to unfold as you approach the interval point. “Talaash is definitely not massy. It has a realistic setting. The mystery seems to start unfolding just before the interval. Performances of Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji are decent, but not extraordinary yet. Nawazuddin and Rajkumar Yadav impress. The movie is a murder mystery cum supernatural thriller as of now. Here’s hoping for a good answer to the puzzling murder!”

The lead pair of Reema Kagti’s forthcoming movie is seen having a good time on the sets of the film in this exclusive fun video. Take a look

Aamir Khan is back! Reema Kagti’s much awaited thriller Talaash starring Mr Perfectionist, Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor is releasing this Friday. We know that the superstar is playing a serious cop by the name of Shekhawat in this gripping drama. But from what we see in this exclusive video, it seems that the cast of this dark-looking movie had an amazing time on the sets while shooting for the project. We see the trio – Reema, Aamir and Rani – having loads of masti.

Rani is her usual chirpy self who likes her share of antics, off the camera obviously. But surprisingly, the otherwise serious and studious Aamir is also seen playing pranks with the cast and the crew. Watch the makers and actors of Talaashshooting for the movie on live locations. This is your chance to find out what goes on behind the cameras and how our stars (and starlets) like to indulge in good fun by unleashing their naughty and candid side. You just can’t miss this one, for sure!

After the debacle of her last film Aiyyaa, the petite Rani Mukerji will be seen a new and promising venture called Talaash, starring Aamir Khan in the lead role. Rani maintains that brand Aamir will attract audiences to theatres

Rani Mukerji might be disheartened with the reaction she received for her last film Aiyyaa, but the accomplished actor is certainly not down or out. In fact, her next release Talaash is already being hailed as a blockbuster and Rani is happy about the positive energy she is sensing in the project. ‘Is this the magic of brand Aamir Khan?’, we ask. “When I worked with Aamir for the first time he was a superstar then. He’s a much bigger star now. His focus, dedication and sincerity towards his craft have become greater with time. The image that he has created for himself is the result of the focus he has maintained throughout his career. The kind of story he wants to show and characters he portrays have had a huge impact. Today, when you go to watch an Aamir Khan film, you are assured that you are going to watch a good film. Aamir ne kabhi nahi kaha ki ‘Meri picture achhi hain to aa jao aur dekho!’,” said Rani.

We agree with the lady, who will be seen in her third film with Mr Perfectionist after working with him in Ghulam (1998) and Mangal Pandey: The Rising ( 2005). We hope that the Aamir-Rani pair works magic on the big screen once again!

Aamir Khan’s forthcoming release Talaash is a curious combination of intrigue, drama and suspense. The sharp dialogues, melodious songs and interesting screenplay of Reema Kagti’s production make this much-talked-about movie even more interesting. Take a look…and listen to the new song Hona hai kya!

The opening frame of the promo of Talaash, Reema Kagti’s gripping tale, has Rani Mukerji sobbing inconsolably as the voiceover explains a situation where someone has drowned to death mysteriously. Aamir Khan, who is playing a dashing cop in this suspense thriller, is leaving no stone unturned to go to the root cause of this unfortunate accident…or is it suicide? But there’s much more to this mystery than meets the eye. An assistant cop reveals to Aamir that there have been such instances before on the same road where people have died under mysterious circumstances. Will Aamir be able to find a common thread connecting these accidents and unearth the mystery?

Take a look at these taut and transfixing dialogues from Talaash and tell us if you get a clue about how this puzzle will be solved by Khan the cop. And while you are doing that, listen to the new song, just released. Hona hai kya is perfect for the situation, as is the rule with Aamir’s films, and is well worth a listen….

The Talaash actor who left for Hajj with his mother Zeenat Hussain on October 19 is now back in Mumbai

Aamir Khan is a man of his word. The 47-year-old has kept his promise he made to his mother Zeenat Hussain by taking her to the holy land of Mecca. Even though the actor was busy working on his forthcoming releases Dhoom 3 and Talaash, he made sure that he fulfilled his mother’s long time wish. He launched the music of Talaash on October 19, shortly after returning from Chicago where he was shooting for Dhoom 3 with Katrina Kaif and Abhishek Bachchan, and then left for Mecca the same evening.

Mr Perfectionist was seen spending quality time with his mother Zeenat in the holy city and helping her dutifully. On October 22 the mother-son duo departed for Mina and performed Tawaf-e-Ziarat on October 26. From there Aamir took his mother to Medinah on October 29 and boarded a flight to Mumbai from there.

Now, after seeking blessings from the almighty, Aamir will gear up to promote Talaash with his co-stars Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji. Aamir’s definitely a super busy man at the moment. So we won’t be surprised if the actor goes off on a long break after completing Raju Hirani’s Peekay!

Music: Ram Sampath

Lyrics: Javed Akhtar

Rating: **1/2

The Aamir Khan-Rani Mukerji-Kareena Kapoor starrer Talaash directed by Reema Kagti is a thriller; obviously there is not much scope for music at the script level. Ram Sampath, who has become Aamir’s favourite music director now, has been roped in to create a soundtrack that can support the genre the movie belongs to.

First up is the song Muskaanein jhooti hain. Indie artist Suman Sridhar uses her husky voice effectively in this silky smooth number. It’s as lilting as her quirky Hawa hawai from Shaitan. It’s definitely in the zone of Kaisi paheli from Parineeta, but slightly more eerie and haunting than Parineeta’s sweetly seductive track.

Certain portions of Jeele zara will probably be running through the film as part of the background score and should prove to be effective. Vishal Dadlani sings about the growing distance between two lovers in this song as Javed Akhtar writes Phir dil se dil ke pul kyun toote hain. It’s not really a unique melody, but Vishal instills enough passion into the track to keep you hooked.

The next song Jeeya lage na is virtually a jam session between Sona Mohapatra and Ravindra Upadhyay. This electro-folk fusion – techno beats, tabla and break beat samples – is a great attempt to bring new sounds into mainstream Bollywood music. The lyrics are very simple: Jeeya lage na tum bin mora, kya jaane kyun hai, kya jaane kaisi andhekhi si dor. The combination of Sona and Ravindra’s voices and the merging of various sounds makes Jeeya lage na unique.

Lakh duniya kahe starts with a piano piece and Ram Sampath’s soft voice. It’s a straightforward composition with easy lines. The orchestration and arrangement are what lift the track a notch higher.

Hona kya hai has the Aaj ki raat (from Don) hangover, except this one’s heavier. It’s a groovy number packed with beats, but not on par with the rest of the tracks.

Talaash’s soundtrack is slick, groovy and situational, and will work best in the context of the film.

We loved Kareena Kapoor’s loud, garish and colourful avatar in her new film Talaash starring Aamir Khan and Rani Mukherji. Though Aamir is Bebo’s favourite actor, the hot babe says that Mr Perfectionist has a fake smile. Or that’s how we interpreted it when we translated the jazzy Muskaanein jhoothi hain number into English. Take a look!